xii Preface to Second Edition

two chapters. The new Chapter 5 covers the electrical breakdown of gases.
The breakdown of liquid and solid dielectrics is presented in Chapter 6 of the
current edition.
Chapter 7 of the new text represents an expansion of Chapter 6 of the
previous book. The additional areas covered comprise a short but fundamental
introduction to dielectric properties of materials, diagnostic test methods, and
non-destructive tests applicable also to on-site monitoring of power equipment.
The expanded scope is a reflection of the growing interest in and development
of on-site diagnostic testing techniques within the electrical power industry.
This area represents what is perhaps the most quickly evolving aspect of high-
voltage testing. The current drive towards deregulation of the power industry,
combined with the fact that much of the apparatus making up the world’s
electrical generation and delivery systems is ageing, has resulted in a pressing
need for the development of in-service or at least on-site test methods which
can be applied to define the state of various types of system assets. Assessment
of the remaining life of major assets and development of maintenance practices
optimized both from the technical and economic viewpoints have become
critical factors in the operation of today’s electric power systems. Chapter 7
gives an introduction and overview of the fundamental aspects of on-site test
methods with some practical examples illustrating current practices.
Chapter 8 is an expansion of Chapter 7 from the previous edition. However,
in addition to the topics of lightning phenomena, switching overvoltages and
insulation coordination, it covers statistically based laboratory impulse test
methods and gives an overview of metal oxide surge arresters. The statistical
impulse test methods described are basic tools used in the application of
insulation coordination concepts. As such, an understanding of these methods
leads to clearer understanding of the basis of insulation coordination. Similarly,
an understanding of the operation and application of metal oxide arresters is
an integral part of today’s insulation coordination techniques.
Chapter 9 describes the design, performance, application and testing of
outdoor insulators. Both ceramic and composite insulators are included.
Outdoor insulators represent one of the most critical components of
transmission and distribution systems. While there is significant experience
in the use of ceramic insulators, composite insulators represent a relatively
new and quickly evolving technology that offers a number of performance
advantages over the conventional ceramic alternative. Their use and
importance will continue to increase and therefore merits particular attention.
The authors are aware of the fact that many topics also relevant to the
fundamentals of high-voltage engineering have again not been treated. But
every textbook about this field will be a compromise between the limited
space available for the book and the depth of treatment for the selected topics.
The inclusion of more topics would reduce its depth of treatment, which should